Arsenal-Barcelona: Who Will Start When the Gunners Face the European Champions?

It will arguably be one of the most anticipated and watched clashes this season.

Arsenal-Barcelona in the quarterfinals of the Champions League. Two of the most entertaining, talented teams in Europe going head-to-head, with Arsenal devastatingly hungry to prove themselves and make their home-ground advantage count.

Sadly, it seems the Gunners may just be short of the title race. However, the Champions League is still well in their grasp and if Arsene Wenger and his men can dethrone the kings, then not only will their confidence surge, but they will pull this competition wide open.

So who should start for the Gunners in their upcoming clash with the Spanish giants?

Goalkeeper

Despite his blunder against Birmingham that gifted the Blues a point, Manuel Almunia has been performing credibly in recent weeks and should keep his place.

It will be a tough challenge for the Spaniard—he needs to ensure no slip-ups occur or Arsenal may find themselves considerably behind for the next leg.

Defence

Wenger will want his strongest foot forward, but unfortunately injuries may hamper that strategy.

William Gallas is still not fit which means Sol Campbell will take his place at centre half. The veteran Englishman has made a sensational return to Premier League football, and he will be out to prove his worth against the European champions.

Campbell will partner Thomas Vermaelen in the centre with Bacary Sagna on the right and Gael Clichy on the left. The quartet will have to perform at their peak, especially defending against the likes of Lionel Messi and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Midfield

Arsenal could potentially be hit with a huge blow if captain and midfield maestro Cesc Fabregas fails to pass a fitness test. The Spaniard injured himself against Birmingham and is in doubt for the vital encounter.

If the 22-year-old is forced to pull out then Samir Nasri is the likeliest to replace him. The Frenchman would shift from the wing into the midfield role.

This could be a blessing in disguise with Nasri undoubtedly relishing the clash with the Spanish giants. He could thrive under the added responsibility like he did against Porto.

Alexandre Song will take the defensive midfielding duties. The Cameroon midfielder has easily been Arsenal's most consistent and improved player this campaign.

Now the 22-year-old has an opportunity to prove himself against one of the world's best midfields.

That leaves the in-form, lanky Frenchman Abou Diaby to terrorise the left side. The Frenchman will be eager to really use his talented legs against the Barcelona attack.

Forwards

Arsenal need goals.

Seeing as the first leg is at the Emirates, Arsenal should have an advantage. Barcelona boasts a strong defence but they are not invincible. Quick passing and movement should enable cracks to appear in the Barcelona back four.

Nicklas Bendtner should take the main striker role with Andrei Arshavin on the left flank.

Both are immensely talented and Bendtner in particular will be keen to live up to his words. If Fabregas is fit to perform than Samir Nasri should play on the right but if "Cesc" fails to appear, either Tomas Rosicky or Emmanuel Eboue will start.

Substitutes

Lukasz Fabianski will have the backup keeper role and Armand Traore and Mikael Silvestre the spare defenders. Depending on whether Fabregas features, Denilson, Rosicky, and Eboue could be fighting for a spot, alongside Eduardo Da Silva and Theo Walcott. 

Walcott will be a great threat off the bench and it is vital he performs and uses his speed and balance to Arsenal's advantage.

It is sure to be a thrilling encounter in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinal. Can Arsenal defy odds and take out European champions Barcelona?